Pomological and Biochemical Characterization of Eight Apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) Cultivars Grown under Elbistan Ecological Conditions

Abstract

This study evaluated the pomological and biochemical characteristics of eight apricot (Prunus armeniaca L.) cultivars grown under the ecological conditions of Elbistan, Türkiye. Significant differences were detected among cultivars for all measured fruit quality traits (P < 0.05). Fruit weight ranged from 20.20 g to 46.62 g, and flesh thickness varied between 7.25 mm and 11.75 mm. Peel color parameters also showed wide variation among cultivars. Biochemical analyses revealed clear differences in sweetness and acidity, with total soluble solids (TSS) ranging from 20.00% to 29.23% and titratable acidity from 0.79% to 1.89%. Antioxidant capacity and total phenolic content also differed notably, with phenolic levels reaching up to 328.45 mg GAE/kg. Principal Component Analysis (PCA) successfully distinguished cultivars based on morphological and biochemical traits. Overall, the results highlight substantial diversity among apricot cultivars grown in Elbistan and provide useful information for cultivar selection, breeding programs, and future studies on fruit quality.

Keywords

• Apricot
• Elbistan
• Ecology
• Pomology
• Biochemical content

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